5 Lessons on Gratitude from a Young Teacher

My 2-year-old daughter wakes up crying and wants to get in Mommy’s Bed. She reaches up her arms, and I lift her into bed. “Thank you, Mommy.”

She feels warm. I take her temperature. “Thank you, Mommy.” I give her medicine. “Thank you, Mommy.”

• Her lips are cracked. I bring her water.

• I apply balm on her lips.

• Her tummy hurts and her nose is congested. I rub essential oils onto her belly and chest.

• I turn on a kids’ show.

• I wipe her runny nose.

• I place her in a warm bath, wrapped in towels, to cool her feverish body.

After every single act of service, she replies the same: “Thank you, Mommy.”

In one hour, my daughter gives more “thank yous” than I typically give in a week. I learn from her the lessons I am supposed to be teaching HER about gratitude.

Lesson #1: People are inspired to help when we are kind.

Lesson #2: We might not be in the moment we want, but we can still be the person we want to be.

Lesson #3: Even in unfavorable circumstances, we can express gratitude.

Lesson #4: When faced with challenges, give focus to the tender mercies.

Lesson #5: We’re never too old to learn, and we’re never too young to teach.

Thank you, sweetie.